Happy National Employee Benefits Day!
Today is a meaningful reminder of why this work matters. A career in employee benefits has always been about more than policies, coverage, or plan design. At its heart, it’s about people — their wellbeing, their families, and the communities we support. That’s why this year’s NEBD theme, Caring in Action, resonates so deeply with me.
Employee benefits are fundamentally about taking care of people — protecting their health and financial security, supporting work‑life balance, and helping them plan for the future. Volunteering and giving back reflect that same commitment. They stem from the belief that supporting others creates stronger, more connected communities, while also positively shaping our own health and sense of purpose.
With more than 27 years in the employee benefits industry, I’ve had the privilege of supporting plan sponsors and employees through education, training, and advocacy. Alongside my professional work, volunteering has been a constant and grounding part of my life. Giving back has reinforced something I’ve experienced firsthand: caring for others can improve our own wellbeing. It fosters connection, reduces isolation, strengthens resilience, and reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves.
My passion for mental health and wellness has guided much of this involvement. I’m proud to be the past Co‑Chair of the Mental Health Committee with the Benefits Alliance Group, where I continue to stay engaged in important industry conversations. In April 2025, I was honoured to receive the Ignite Committee Award, recognizing contributions toward advancing mental health and wellness initiatives within the employee benefits community. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of many dedicated volunteers working together to create meaningful change — a true example of caring in action.
Beyond industry involvement, community service has always been close to my heart. I’ve served on boards such as the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and the Family Service Saskatoon Foundation, supported local charities through fundraising committees, and spent more than a decade volunteering with the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival. In 2016, I was humbled to be nominated for the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Community Building category — an experience that reinforced the power of community connection.
When I first began giving back, financial contributions weren’t always possible. What I could offer was my time, energy, and willingness to show up — whether that meant shaving my head for a cause, planning a gala, or joining a committee. Over time, I’ve learned that these kinds of contributions don’t just help others; they’re transformative for the giver as well. They support mental health, create meaningful relationships, and bring a sense of fulfilment that can’t be measured.
Benefits professionals work every day to improve the wellbeing of employees, but our impact reaches far beyond the workplace. This National Employee Benefits Day, we’re celebrating how the core values of our industry — care, empathy, and service — extend outward, shaping communities that are healthier, more supportive, and more connected.
National Employee Benefits Day is a celebration of both the value of employee benefits and the people who bring them to life. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to give back, and for the many colleagues, volunteers, and partners who continue to inspire positive change across our industry.
